Power Struggle Flashcards
Why was Trotsky asked to attend the Congress?
To explain his views on the way Affairs of the Party were being managed following his bitter attacks
What happened when Trotsky was asked to attend the Congress?
He failed to turn up
Why did Trotsky fail to turn up to Lenin’s funeral?
Stalin told him the wrong date so he could claim Trotsky did not respect Lenin
Why did Stalin fear Trotsky?
For national reputation
He was Lenin’s right hand man
He had the support of the army + large sections of workers
He was considered Lenin’s natural successor
Why was it a mistake for Trotsky to give up his position as Commissar for Military and Naval Affairs?
He surrendered his only power base without a fight
What happened at the 13th Party Congress?
Zinoviev renewed attacks on Trotsky + called on him to refuse earlier claims
What happened at the 12th Party Congress?
Lenin’s Testament was disclosed, may have stopped Stalin in his tracks
In Trotsky’s absence, Stalin turned on him and accused him of factionalism
